FBI Captures Fraudster After 4 Years on the Run
FBI captures fraudster who defrauded SNAP program of $600K after fleeing to India.
2 min read
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has successfully captured Manjit Singh Bedi, a 64-year-old naturalized U.S. citizen originally from India, after he fled to India to evade justice for allegedly defrauding the U.S. government of $600,000 through a SNAP benefits scheme.
SNAP Fraud Scheme Allegations
Bedi, who operated the Asian Grocery Store in Tacoma, Washington, was accused of swiping SNAP cards and giving participants cash instead of food, keeping half the proceeds for himself. The scheme allegedly took place between March 2024 and June 2025.
Bedi was added to the FBI’s “Most Wanted Fraudsters” list in early September 2026 with a reward of up to $150,000. He was the sixth person apprehended from the list. After being indicted for wire fraud and SNAP benefit fraud, Bedi pleaded not guilty in April but was ordered to surrender his passport and remain in Washington. He violated this order by fleeing to Canada and then to India.
The FBI issued a federal arrest warrant in May 2026 after he violated the conditions of supervision. Law enforcement in India detained Bedi and handed him over to U.S. agents in the Western District of Washington.
Officials Commend FBI Efforts
Acting U.S. Attorney Neil Floyd commended the FBI and international partners for bringing Bedi back to face justice. He emphasized that those who defraud the government must be held accountable.
FBI Director Kash Patel highlighted the success of the FBI’s Most Wanted Fraudsters program, noting that Bedi is one of six captured since the list was created three months ago. The group is responsible for over $2 billion in fraud and has been on the run for almost 4,000 days collectively prior to arrest.
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Inspector General John Walk condemned the theft of SNAP benefits, stating that stealing food assistance from low-income Americans is wrong and that the USDA will not stop pursuing such crimes.
Warning to Potential Fugitives
FBI Seattle Special Agent in Charge Mike Herrington warned that no one can escape justice by fleeing to another country. He emphasized the FBI’s commitment to pursuing those who attempt to evade consequences for their crimes.
FBI Seattle Special Agent in Charge Mike Herrington on Manjit Singh Bedi, one of the FBI’s Most Wanted Fraudsters, who returned to the U.S. to Face Justice: "No matter how far someone may flee and no matter how long it may take, the FBI is committed to pursuing those who attempt… pic.twitter.com/wboB9ZgYUs
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Source: OANN
